Former UN ambassador Marc-André Blanchard named chief of staff to Mark Carney
Former Canadian ambassador to the United Nations Marc-André Blanchard will serve as Prime Minister Mark Carney's chief of staff starting next month, Carney announced Sunday.
'Marc-André has a long and distinguished career,' Carney said in a
post on X
on Sunday afternoon, pointing to Blanchard's experience in law, diplomacy and the public service.
Carney had earlier stated that he asked former Liberal cabinet minister Marco Mendicino to remain as chief of staff 'into the summer.'
He described Mendicino's role as critical during the 'intense period' following Carney's March victory in the Liberal leadership race and his succession of Justin Trudeau as prime minister.
Carney expressed his 'continued appreciation' for Mendicino's service in the announcement of Blanchard's appointment.
In recent weeks,
speculation about Mendicino's replacement has swirled in Liberal circles
. The Star confirmed that former Trudeau adviser Mathieu Bouchard had conversations about the job.
Blanchard had previously denied a report that he was approached for the job.
More to come
With files from Alex Ballingall and Robert Benzie
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